How to Fix Apps That Won't Update in the App Store

When apps refuse to update in the App Store, downloads get stuck or fail completely. This disrupts your workflow and leaves you with outdated software that may have security vulnerabilities or missing features.

1. Force quit the App Store. Double-tap the home button or swipe up from the bottom and pause on iPhone X and later. Swipe up on the App Store preview to close it completely. On iPad, swipe up from the bottom, pause, then swipe up on App Store. Reopen the App Store from your home screen.
2. Check your internet connection. Open Safari and load any website to verify connectivity. If using Wi-Fi, go to Settings > Wi-Fi and tap the info button next to your network. Toggle Wi-Fi off for 10 seconds, then back on. For cellular data, go to Settings > Cellular and ensure App Store is enabled under Cellular Data.
3. Restart your device. Press and hold the side button and volume down button until the power off slider appears on iPhone X and later. On older iPhones, hold the top or side button. Slide to power off, wait 30 seconds, then press and hold the side button to restart. On iPad, the process is identical but button locations may vary.
4. Sign out and back into your Apple ID. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Media & Purchases and tap Sign Out. Wait 30 seconds, then tap Sign In and enter your Apple ID credentials. Open the App Store and attempt the update again.
5. Clear available storage space. Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. Check available space at the top. If you have less than 1GB free, delete photos, videos, or unused apps. Apps need temporary space during updates that exceeds their final size, even for small updates.
6. Update apps individually. In the App Store, tap your profile icon in the top right corner. Scroll to Pending Updates and tap Update next to each app individually instead of using Update All. Wait for each app to complete before starting the next one.
7. Check Date & Time settings. Go to Settings > General > Date & Time and enable Set Automatically. If already enabled, toggle it off, wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on. Incorrect date and time settings can cause SSL certificate errors that block App Store connections.
8. Reset network settings if problems persist. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings. Enter your passcode when prompted. This removes all saved Wi-Fi passwords, so have them ready to re-enter. Your device will restart automatically.